Party with dogs, watch soccer with geeks, & 18 things to do in Seattle this week

There’s no time like the present to pick up a new hobby or make some new friends (maybe even a mayoral candidate friend?). This week is full of events that will let you do just that. Now, start filling out that calendar.

MONDAYSay hey to your candidates. Watch a moderated mayoral debate at a live viewing party and mingle with the candidates after, or stay home and watch it on KING 5, KUOW or online via GeekWire. There’s a chance you’ll get your questions answered if you tweet them out using the hashtag #SEAMayor. And don’t forget about the other positions that are up for a vote on August 1; this is your chance to meet the candidates for Seattle Port Commissioner positions.

‘Why can’t I tickle myself?’ Two Seattle neuroscientists are reading out of their new book that answers our burning brain questions. (University District)

TUESDAY
Figure out how to talk about climate change. Get the down-low on how to reach people and tell stories about our changing climate. (Stevens)

WEDNESDAY
Watch soccer with a bunch of geeks. GeekWire is hosting its popular Sounders Day event, where you can go to a rooftop pre-game party with a fantastic view, march to the Sounders match, then sit in a reserved block of seating and watch our MLS team play. (Pioneer Square)

Prove you’re street smart. Grab a beer and a city-savvy group of friends for a trivia night all about land use, transit, density and growth. (Capitol Hill)

THURSDAY

Laugh while sober. Local comedian Liz Donehue is putting on a comedy show for sober people, by sober people, so “they can enjoy this art form outside of venues that seek to have them drink.” (Capitol Hill)

Head to the International District. Enjoy cabaret performances, live music, food, and art. Entry to the Wing Luke Museum is included in your ticket. (International District)

FRIDAY
The Capitol Hill Block Party is here! This year’s weekend-long, five-stage music fest has a killer lineup. And if you’ve been thinking about getting some fresh ink, we hear a nearby tattoo studio is getting in on the Block Party action and offering $50 tattoos all weekend. (Capitol Hill)

Take a Bite of Seattle. Over 60 restaurants and vendors will be showing off their fare through Sunday; plus, there’ll be beer, cider, cooking demos, and live music galore. (Queen Anne)